North West Children are bubbling with enthusiasm about science

MINI-scientists from across the North West are bubbling with enthusiasm about science - thanks to a new essay competition.

The inaugural North West Schools Science Competition this week showcased the region’s brightest sparks who had written presentations outlining why they want to be scientists when they grow up.More than 50 Year Seven and Eight pupils entered the competition - with eleven finalists being selected to present their essays to a panel of judges from industry, business and education at the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes.

Eleven-year-old Joe Hosie from Ysgol Clywedog, in Wrexham, was crowned the overall winner in the North Wales category for his essay on why he wants to become a marine biologist.

Tom Fairfax, 12, from Culcheth High, in Warrington won the Year Seven category and 12-year-old Fiona Carr of St Michael’s, in Sefton, won the Year Eight category for her essay on why she enjoys studying Forensic Science.

All winners were presented with an iPod Touch by competition organiser Geoffrey Piper, chief executive of the North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT), while the runners-up received special certificates.

Mr Piper said: “The first ever North West Schools Science Competition has been really exciting.

“It was launched by the NWBLT in conjunction with Catalyst, to encourage young people in the region to think about what they are going to do in life and especially to encourage them to consider science as a career.

“The World needs innovative and talented scientists to help create the wealth and resources for the future and come up with solutions to cope with the needs of an ever-increasing population.

“It is these scientists who help solve the World’s most pressing problems and it is vital that we enthuse our youngsters about science at an early age so we have more exceptional scientists coming through the ranks.”

Julie Burgess-Wilson, Catalyst director, said: “We are facing national and international challenges that we need the help of scientists to solve.

“As a result we need to inspire children and make them excited about science so they can follow careers in science and industry.

“Some of these children’s essays are inspirational.

“It is evident that these young people understand the challenge, the scope of subjects and the sheer excitement that science can provide.

“I am really heartened that our young people in the North West see science as a positive thing and are excited about pursuing a career in science and industry.”